Howell can’t wait to get stuck into PGA event at Wentworth

DAVID Howell is relishing the chance of a return to form at the PGA Championships at Wentworth.

The Broome Manor pro has endured a tough time on the European Tour this season and following a three-week break, the last of which he spent nursing a wrist injury, the 38-year-old is looking forward to being back out on the course.

“The PGA is a fantastic tournament,” Howell said. “It is the next best thing we have on the European Tour to the British Open.

“I have had some good times in the competition and it would be great if I could repeat 2006 (when I won it).

“The crowds have been gathering since Tuesday and there is a great atmosphere so I’m really looking forward to it.”

While admitting that he season date has been disappointing, Howell says that he has not made any major changes ahead today’s start.

“During the break I met up with my coach and we went through a few things and there were just a couple of technical things that we felt needed a bit of work,” Howell said.

“He said that my swing was slightly better last year, but this is a game of reflection and we haven’t had a massive overhaul.

“The confidence is still there, but it would be nice if I could sink a few more putts than I have been.”

Having spent the majority of the season on the road and living out of hotel rooms, Howell admits that there is probably more pressure on him in the build up to Wentworth.

“Not really,” Howell said when asked if he could relax a little more with it being a home tournament.

“We have had the PGA dinner on the Tuesday night, there is also more press to do and we have a couple of guests staying as well.

“It is nice to be at home, but it probably more relaxing being away in a hotel.”

Prior to teeing off today, Howell has missed the cut in his last two outings as he finished a disappointing 125th at the China Open with a score of eight-over-par from his two rounds, while at the Malaysian Open his five-over was only good enough to be place tied 100th.

At the NH Collection in Spain, the Broome Manor star shot a four-over-par for the four days, while in Morocco at the Trophee Hassan II he finished tied 60th with a three-over.

Howell’s best performance of the season was at the Tshwane Open in March when his ended the tournament eight-under.

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